Price Condemns Attacks, Calls for Stronger U.S. Leadership

House Republican Policy Committee Chairman Tom Price on Wednesday condemned what he called the "outrageous and unwarranted attacks" on American embassies in Libya and Egypt, saying "our prayers are with the families" of the U.S. diplomats who were killed.

"They served this great nation with honor and courage," the Georgia congressman said in a statement issued by his office

Price, one of the top GOP leaders in the House, said the United States must make it clear to America's allies and enemies that "acts of violence and terrorism that seek to disrupt the cause of freedom and to destroy lives" will not be tolerated.

"Now, more than ever, America must show resolve and leadership both in our words and in our actions," he said. “Absent American leadership, the world will only become a far more dangerous place. At a time of great turmoil, we must reinforce our commitment to lead out front, not from behind."

Price's statement did not mention President Barack Obama by name or his administration's initial reaction to the incidents in Libya and Egypt. But he did reference what may Republicans have complained is the administration's failure to solidify its support for Israel in the face of Iran's nuclear threat and increasing unrest directed at the Jewish state from elsewhere in the Middle East.

"We must ensure we do all that we can to strengthen America’s relationships with our allies, like Israel, so they know, and those who might question our resolve know, that America will do all that is necessary to protect our way of life and secure peace," Price said. "That is the level of leadership needed to ensure our nation remains the most powerful force for the defense of liberty.”